Modular building system

ABSTRACT

A system for the construction of a multi-story building structure is described in which the structural framework comprises at least two spaced series of contiguous building sections, those sections comprising a plurality of vertically stacked building units defined by horizontal support members, the horizontal support members of adjacent building sections being offset from one another. The horizontal supports of selected building sections in each series are connected by planks to form continuous floors on the same level, those continuous floors defining the main levels of the building. Those planks are connected within the space between the two series of building sections by means of a narrow planar connecting member, stairwells being provided at each side of each connecting member adjacent the non-selected building sections of each series. Stairway elements provided in those stairwells are effective to connect the main levels of the building with the offset intermediate levels of the non-selected building sections therebetween, whereby a large proportion of split level occupancy units may be provided and public corridors need not be provided on every main level of the building. In addition, the framework allows for occupancy units to extend completely across the building on main levels between public corridors, thereby to provide for occupancy units having double exposure. The framework is preferably built up from a plurality of precast reinforced structural elements, the basic element having an H cross section. A plurality of H elements are stacked in vertical alignment to form a building section, two such building sections being operatively connected by a third section defined by planks connected at opposite ends to the points between consecutive vertically stacked H elements. The structural framework herein provided affords maximum flexibility of design both with regard to the interior and exterior of the building, and provides a substantially monolithic structural framework with increased structural integrity.

11 3,805,461 1451 Apr. 23, 1974 MODULAR BUILDING SYSTEM [76] Inventor: Ajzyk Jagoda, 285 Aycrigg Ave.,-

New York, N.Y. 07055 [22] Filed: Oct. 10, 1972 [21] Appl. No.: 295,806

[52] US. Cl 52/79, 52/185, 52/236 [51] Int. Cl E04b l/348, E04h H04 [58] Field of Search 52/79, 185, 236, 262, 264

[5 6] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,698,973 1/1955 Zeckendorf et a1. 52/236 X 3,510,997 5/1970 Ratych 52/79 3,618,278 11/1971 Mouton et a1. 52/262 X 2,241,830 5/1941 Tourtellotte. 52/236 X 3,656,266 4/1972 Tylius 52/79 X FOREIGN PATENTS OR APPLICATIONS 40,879 7/1958 Poland 52/79 1,432,678 2/1966 France r 52/79 1,019,628 2/1966 Great Britain 52/79 306,414 4/1966 Sweden 52/79 Switzerland 52/79 Primary ExaminerPrice C. Faw, Jr.

[5 ABSTRACT A system for the construction of a multi-story building structure is described in which the structural framework comprises at least two spaced series of contiguous building sections, those sections comprising a plurality .of vertically stacked building units defined by horizontal support members, the horizontal support members of adjacent building sections being offset from one another. The horizontal supports of selected building sections in each series are connected by planks to form continuous floors on the same level, those continuous floors defining the main levels of the building. Those planks are connected within the space between the two series of building sections by means of a narrow planar connecting member, stairwells being provided at each side of each connecting member adjacent the non-selected building sections of each series.

Stairway elements provided in those stairwells are effective to connect the main levels of the building with the offset intermediate levels of the non-selected building sections therebetween, whereby a large proportion of split level occupancy units may be provided and public corridors need not be provided on every main level of the building. In addition, the framework allows for occupancy units to extend completely across the building on main levels between public corridors, thereby to provide for occupancy units having double exposure.

The framework is preferably built up from a plurality of precast reinforced structural elements, the basic element having an H cross section. A plurality of H elements are stacked in vertical alignment to form a buildingsection, two such building sections being operatively connected by a third section defined by planks connected at opposite ends to the points between consecutive vertically stacked I-l elements. The structural framework herein provided affords maximum flexibility of design both with regard to the interior and exterior of the building, and provides a substantially monolithic structural framework with increased structural integrity.

11 Claims, 14 Drawing Figures ATENTEHAPR23 1974 l 3 805461 sum 7 [1F 7 FIG. 9

1 MODULAR BUILDING SYSTEM This invention relates to building structures, and more particularly, to an improved structural arrangement for the construction of a variety of multi-story buildings.

Conventional structures of the multi-story type are constructed using a variety of materials and techniques. These standard construction techniques all require onsite fabrication of the primary structural components such as foundation, floors and load bearing vertical walls or other vertical support structures. For example, in a typical construction technique, successive stories are built up by providing horizontal framework between spacedverticalload bearing structure, pouring concrete to formpermanent floors extending between such vertical support structure and then building up anotherstory of vertical load bearing supports suitably trussed, whereupon successive vertical supports and theadjacent floor sections mounted therebetween are permanently joinedby pouring concrete. This process is repeated for each story of a multi-story building.

The time,.labor.and materials involved in on-site fabrication of allstructural components including the unavoidable delays after each pouring of concrete have longbeen recognized as theprimary causeof soaring construction costs. Moreover,.constru'ction of this type can and often is delayed substantiallyby such variable factors as inclement weather and shortages in both skilled laborand materials.

In addition, traditional building techniquesprovide little flexibilityin design with regard to both the interior andexteriorofrthe structure. Thus, in accordance with traditional design one occupancy unit (an apartment or office or the like) is limited to a single floor, and except for units at theend of acorridor is limitedto single exposure. Variationsfrom this basic pattern, while possible, require a rather extensive and time consuming modification of thelbasic construction techniquesince traditionally each story is separated from the succeeding story by structural concrete, except for centrally located stairwells and elevator shafts. Split level units vertically offset by less than one story are extremely difficult to provide with standard building techniques.

Likewise the external appearance of structures constructedby such standard methods is rather limited theroof is usually flat and thefacade must be consistent with thecontinuous floor construction characteristics of such structures. r Further difficulties are encountered in laying the foundation. Indeed, it will be apparentthat uneven terrain presents somewhat of a problem for standard buildingconstruction methods and typically the terrain itself must be flattenedat considerable expense toaceommodatethe standard structure. Accordingly, either some units arebelow ground level or substantial space must be wasted. While it is possible to construct traditional buildings on a hill, .this again requires a substantial variation in the standard techniques-andconsiderable additionalexpense.

Finally, from a purely structural viewpoint, standard construction techniques as described above leave much to be desired. Forexample, it is 'well known that the load .bearin g capability. of a vertical support, member is a function of its effective length (the length between lateralsupport connections), As,a.result,in standard multi-story structures the load bearing capabilities of the vertical supports are limited bythc required distance of at least one story between supports. While those supports may be laterally trusscd, the trusses further limit the interior design of the building.

lnrecent years attempts have been made to eliminate many of the foregoing problems by modular building techniques using prefabricated units or modules. Many of the so-called modular constructionmethods are directed only to the prefabrication of non-structural (non-load bearing) elements. While these techniques considerably reduce the cost of the interior work, they do not at all solve the aforementioned problems associated with the standard construction methods. Moreover, attempts at a true modular construction techniques using modular load bearing members have met with little success primarily as a resultof the inherent limitations of the structural modules (such as boxes) thusfar proposed.

It is a primary object of the present invention to. pro- .vide an improved modular construction system foruse in the construction of a wide variety of multi-story structures which is adapted to drastically reduce the costs of construction, improve structural integrity, maximize design flexibility, and greatly increase the possible speed of erection.

Moreparticularly, it is an object of the presentinven- .tion to provide a multi-story building technique adapted to substantially eliminate the costs and time involved in onsite fabricationwhile at the same time increasing design flexibility.

available floor space.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide 'a multi-story structure, the structural frame- 7 work of which may be erected with a minimum amount of on-site time and labor. r

.lt isstill another object of thepresent inventionto design an essentially monolithic multi-story structures using a minimum of standard structural components which may be prefabricated and rapidly arranged and joined to provide a wide variety of external shapes and sizes.

It is another object of thepresent invention to design a structural member for multi-story buildings which may be arranged to form split level building sections having a flexibility in interior design heretofore unattainable. a It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a multi-story structure readilyadapted to be erected on sites of varying terrain with no increase in cost or loss in above-ground floor space.

The present invention comprises a system for the construction of multi-story buildings which broadly stated provides precast monolithic'structural members which maybe arranged in stacked relationship to form the structural framework of a building, adjacent sections being arranged in split level relationship,.a single corridor means providing independent access to at least two vertically aligned occupancy units. As a result public corridors need not be provided for every full story of the building, the floor space of those stories not including corridors being substantially fully utilized by dwelling or office units (hereinafter called occupancy units). In a preferred design a substantial number of occupancy units embrace two or more adjacent staggered building sections. Accordingly, those units which include floor levels spaced at least one story from the public corridors may be designed with double exposure, the occupany unit extending fully across the structure between successive public corridors.

One such modular building system is disclosed in the copending Jagoda et al, application Ser. No. 170,812 filed Aug. 11, 1971 and now abandoned. That system utilizes a basic structural unit made of precast reinforced concrete in the form of a U-shaped channel having a horizontal base and a pair of vertical legs. The legs of that channel are one half a story in height. Accordingly, when vertically stacked in staggered relationship they define adjacent building sections vertically offset by one half of one story. Corridors are provided on alternate stories of the building to provide increased usable floor space and increased flexibility in interior design including a number of occupany units with double exposure. In addition, the time and expense involved in on-site fabrication is substantially reduced thereby reducing the cost and increasing the speed of construction. Moreover, the use of such precast integral structural members provides significant structural advantages notable among which are the increased load hearing capacity of the system as a result of the reduced height of the vertical support structure and the elimination of the need for expansion joints.

While the specific structural arrangement disclosed in that copending application solves many of the problems of the prior art and provides significant design advantages, it also exhibits major drawbacks. For example, while the need for on-site pouring of each story of the building is eliminated, the use of precast U-shaped members of only one half story in height requires the such pourings is not two separate concrete pourings are required for the erection of each story whereby substantial delays are still encountered. Moreover, the plumbing and '-wiring which typically extends through the vertical support walls must traverse twice the number of joints encountered in conventional structures, whereby the time, labor and material required to complete the plumbing and electrical system of the building is substantially doubled.

Finally, while the split level alternate corridor arrangement per se enhances interior design flexibility (i.e., duplex apartments with double exposure) the U- shaped structural member has certain inherent design limitations in connection with such an arrangement which may be overcome only'by major variations in that member. 1

Disclosed herein is a structural system of the type described which provides all of the aforementioned advantages over conventional structures yet substantially avoids these drawbacks.

The system herein described is based upon a precast structural load bearing member in the form of an H,

including a horizontal cross member formed integral with and extending between two vertical side flanges each one story in height. In the preferred embodiment herein specifically disclosed, the cross member is disposed half way between the top and bottom of the flanges and defines the horizontal floor and ceiling supports of a building section. Alternate building sections are formed by stacking H members directly atop one another, a building unit (defined herein as a space enclosed between two horizontal supports and two vertical supports) of one story in height being defined between successive cross members. Standard precast planks are supported at each end atop the H flanges and extend between alternate H" building sections thereby to define additional building sections (hereinafter called P sections) between each H section, the units in the P sections being offset vertically from the units of the H" sections by one half story.

The H members are preferably prefabricated of reinforced concrete in standard widths, the width (parallel to the H flanges) of each H unit being equal to one or more of such standard widths depending upon the number of H members positioned contiguously end to end. For a typical multi-story building designed in accordance with the preferred embodiment herein disclosed, two such series of alternate H and P" building sections are provided in parallel spaced relationships, the spaced H sections of each series preferably being aligned. The horizontal planks defining alternate P sections extend completely across the space between the two series of building sections, thereby to define continuous horizontal supports defining continuous floors and ceilings for aligned P sections. The continuous floors and ceilings of consecutive P sections are connected by narrow horizontal supports, spaced at either side from the aligned H sections of the two series to define stairwells.

In the embodiment here described these narrow horizontal supports together with the continuous floors they connect are adapted to define public corridors on selected levels, the remaining levels having continuous floorsbeing utilized substantially fully for occupancy units. Prefabricated stairway units are provided within the stairwells and provide independent access from the corridors to all levels of the building.

The basic pattern may be repeated .to form a variety of external building configurations. An elevator shaft and public stairway is preferably formed in a location replacing a P- sectionof the building.

The system disclosed herein provides numerous major advantages both of a structural and design nature. In terms of basic structure, the H member provides a significantly improved load bearing capacity as a result of the lateral supports every one half story (approximately 4-% feet) and, indeed, that load bearing capacity is even further enhanced by the fact that alternate half story levels are formed with precast completely integral joints between horizontal and vertical supports. Moreover,'this is accomplished without increasing the number of poured joints through which the plumbing and wiring must run thereby substantially reducing the time and labor involved in on-site construction work, In addition the H member structural arrangement facilitates the provision for the pouring of a substantially completely reinforced monolithic joint of a type which is difficult to attain with the U member system. Finally, the planks utilized with the present system are of a type readily commercially available. As a result, a given facility designed for producing H members as herein disclosed can supply these members for substantially twice the number of structures as would be the case for the U system. Stated in other terms, the H system requires only half the number of specially designed elements for a given structure. Moreover, it will be apparent that the H elements can be arranged for shipment and storage in substantially the same space (as a like number of U" elements) so that effective storage and shipping capacity is substantially doubled thereby to insure a smooth flow of materials.

From a design standpoint, the system here disclosed provides maximum flexibility in the exterior shape and size of the building as well as the interior design of occupancy units, all of which is provided using the same basic structural components and techniques with little variation- For example, as a result of the split level, alternate corridor arrangement, numerous occupancy units may be provided with double exposure at opposite sides of the building and those units may extend to two or more levels.

Moreover, unlike the U system, the H system provides further flexibility in the size, shape and staggered arrangement of the building units. For example, the size of thefP sections may be easily varied simply by using standard planks of varying size thereby to provide a size variation in one building section independently of others without the need for specially designed structural members; Indeed, it is even possible tovary the staggered relationship of adjacent'building units by using H elements having the cross mem'beroffset from the center of the vertical flanges. In addition, the

height of an occupancy unit may be varied merelyby the omission of a plank, preferably at the uppermost P u'nits.

Perhaps most importantly, the H system is extremely well suited for construction of buildings directly on uneven terrain, without any significant additional expense.

Finally, the roof and facade of a building constructed in accordance with the system herein disclosed may take a variety of forms and shapes.

To the accomplishment of the above and to such other objects as may hereinafter appear, the present invention relates to a system for. the construction of multi-story buildings as defined in the appended claims and as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a simplified'fragmentary cross sectional view of a multi-story structure showing the basic constructionsystem of the present invention;

FIG. lA is a fragmentary exploded view in perspective of one of the structural poured joints of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2 is a cut away exploded perspective viewof a segment of the structural framework of a typical multistory high rise structure constructed in accordance with the present invention and showing all structural elementsforming the foundation anda typical story of said building;

FIG. 3 is 'a perspective illustration of the seven basic structural elements utilized in the structure shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 isan exploded perspective view, partly cut away, of a building provided from the structural framework of FIG. 2 showing an exemplary layout of occu- FIG. 8 is an illustration of thebasic structural elements utilized in the construction ofthe building of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of a low-rise structure constructed in accordance with the system of FIG. 7 and showing an exemplary facade;

FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of a low-rise building constructed in accordance with the system of FIG. 7 directly on uneven terrain and showing still another exemplary facade; and

FIG. 11 is a front elevational view of the structural framework of a building similar to that of FIG. 10 with the facade cut away.

Referring now to the drawings and in particular to FIG. 1, there is illustrated the basic structural system utilized in accordance with thepresent inventionto provide the structural framework of a multi-story building. As there shown, that basic structural framework is defined by two basic structural elements here designated H and P, both of which are illustrated in perspective in FIG. 3. The H element comprises a horizontal planar cross member 10, the ends of which are integrally connected to two identical vertical flange members 12 along the center lines thereof. The P element comprises a simple horizontal plank 14 having oppositely extending projections 16 at each corner thereof to define a recess 18, the purpose of which will be hereinafter apparent.

As best shown in FIG. 1, the basic structure is formed by spanning the vertical flanges 12 of consecutive spaced H elements in one tier with planks P. Thereafter another tier of H elements are placed atop the H elements of thefirst tier, the edges of the planks P being sandwiched between the aligned vertically stacked flanges 12 of consecutive stacked H elements. The two flanges 12 and plank P sandwiched therebetween are then permanently joined after which the process is re- .peated to form another story of the building.

' The cross members 10 of the vertically stacked H elements define the floors and ceilings of a plurality of vertically aligned building units (hereinafter termed H sections having H and P building units staggered in split level arrangement.

Elements H and planks P are preferably formed of precast reinforced concrete. The planks P are presently commercially available in a variety of sizes. The elements H may be specially cast in a facility designed for that purpose. The structure illustrated in FIG. 1 requires only one poured concrete joint per building section for each story of the building.

One such joint is illustrated by the enlarged exploded perspective of FIG. 1A. As there shown, reinforcing elements 26 extend through and outwardly of the edges 12a of flanges l2 and the recessed edge 18 of plank P. Those reinforcing members are overlapped and intertwined in the recessed area defined between projections 16 to provide continuous reinforcement throughout the joint. At the same time, the necessary electrical wiring and plumbing is operatively connected after which the joint is poured in conventional manner. It will be apparent that as so constructed the basic structural framework comprises an essentially monolithic network of flanges 12, planks P and cross members having continuous reinforcement throughout. As a r'esult a very high degree of structural integrity and load bearing capacity is attained. Indeed, the vertical support members defined by flanges 12 are laterally braced at alternate sides every one half of one story through a monolithic joint to provide a load bearing capacity heretofore unattainable with conventional construction techniques.

Using the basic structural framework and technique just described, a variety of structures having exceptionally flexible and versatility of design may be. constructed. One such structure exemplary of the major advantages of this structural system is illustrated in FIG. 2. That structure and many variations thereof may be rapidly and economically erected using the seven structural elements shown in FIG. 3. Those elements include the basic H element prefabricated in two additional widths here designed H and H, a modified H element made in two widths H, and H,, the basic plank P made in one additional width P, a modified plank P,, a connecting element B and two stairway elements S and S,.

Elements H, and H,, comprise a cross member 30 integrally connected at either end to a pair of parallel flanges 32. The primary difference between the elements H and H, is that in the H, element the flanges 12a on one side of the cross member 30 are considerably shortened. This may be conveniently accomplished by blocking off the H element mold in a suitable manner. The modified plank P, comprises a horizontal planar support 34 having lateral projections 36 extending in opposite directions from the corners at one end of the support 34 and a pair of projections 38 extending from opposite sides of the support 34 at locations adjacent to but spaced from the comers of the other end of the support.

The connecting element B comprises a pair of spaced beams 40 preferably of square cross section spanned by a narrow planar connecting member 42, the beams 40 extending substantially laterally beyond the edges 42a of the member 40 at 41. The opposite edges 42b of member 42 extend longitudinally approximately only to the center line of the beams 40 thereby defining an L-shaped ledge 44.

Stairway element S comprises two flights of stairs 46 and 48 separated by an interrnediated landing L, and having a bottom landing L Stairway element S, comprises a single flight of stairs 50 between a bottom 5 landing L and a top landing L Bottom landings L (of element S) and L and top landing L are provided with notches N N and N respectively, on their undersides. In addition, a notch N, is provided at the underside of the top step of flight 46 on stairway element S. The purpose of these notches become apparent hereinafter.

All elements are preferably prefabricated of fully reinforced concrete and may be cast on a mass production scale and shipped to the construction site when needed. In a typical structure, such as that illustrated in FIG. 2, all elements have a length L of approximately 2l feet. Typical widths W for these elements would be as follows:

ELEMENT WIDTH H 9' H 8' H, 8' H, 10' P 12' Moreover, the width of the stairway elements S should be approximately equal to the length of the extensions 41 of the beam 40. For example, if connecting section 42 is 6 feet wide then the extended portions of end walls and may be selectively provided with openings D and W to form doors and windows, respectively, in those walls.

Turning now to FIG. 2, there is illustrated in exploded perspective an exemplary structure constructed in accordance with the present invention. That structure comprises two groups or series of building sections designated X and Y, each series having a plurality of alternate H and P building sections built up in the manner previously described with respect to FIG. 1. Series X and Y are spaced from each other along their entire lengths to provide a longitudinally extending central passage 50 adapted to receive stairways and public corridors in a manner hereinafter described.

As shown in the lower segment of FIG. 2, construction is begun by mountingcontiguous pairs of H elements on conventional foundation elements F. While as here specifically illustrated, each series X and Y is two elements wide, it will be apparent that any desired number of H elements may be disposed contiguously to form H building sections of any desired width. It will also be appreciated that the widths of parallel series X and Y need not be equal. As here specifically shown one storyof series X and Y each comprise two such pairs of H elements defining two spaced I-I building sections designated 52, and 54, in series X are defined by elements H one such element 62 being spaced at one In addition, elements H, and H,, are utilized as vertical end from H building section 52, and another such element 64 being spaced from H building section 54,,. Similarly, one end of series Y is defined by H 1, element 66 spaced from H building section 52,,. However, in the specific building design here illustrated the Y series is extended (downwardly to the right as viewed in FIG. 1), the remaining building sections in that series running parallel to and being aligned with a third series of building sections designated Z, and spaced from series Y by a second central passage 58. For example, as shown in the lower right hand corner of FIG. 2, the third H section 56,, of series Y is aligned with and spaced from the first H section 56 (upwardly to the left as viewed in FIG. 2) and defines one end wall of series Z. The H1 elements 62, 54, 66 and 68 are all firmly mounted in conventional comer foundation members F1.

Disposed adjacent H section 54y in the space between that section and the next H section 56y is a pub lic vertical access means 70 defined by an H1 element and an H" element with their flanges l2 and 32, respectively disposed contiguously to form vertical walls 71 and 73. That vertical access 70 disposed between walls 71 and 73 comprises an elevator shaft 72 defined between the cross members '10 and 30 of these elements and a publicstairway 74 defined between the cross member of the H" element and the flanges 12 of the H elements formed in H section 54y. The element H1 definingelevator shaft 72 is provided with openings D' forming doors to provide access to the elevator at the ground floor (or basement).

THe flanges 12 of each of the H elements directly adjacent passage 50 is provided with a notch N facing that passage. Those notches provide a mounting ledge for the beams 40 of elements B. As best illustrated in the upper portion of FIG. 2, an element B is adapted to straddle passage 50 between each pair of aligned H sections in series X and Y. For example, in the typical story illustrated at the top of 'FIG. 2 a B element 80 straddles the H elements of H sections 52x and 52y and B element 82 straddles the H elements of H sections 54x and 54y. The ends of beams 40 are dimensioned to fit snugly into notches N of aligned H flanges 12, those beams having a height and thickness such that they form with the top edges 12a of flanges 12 a continuous edge extending completely across the width of the structure. The connecting supports 42 of the B elements are disposed atop those beams and have a reduced width sufficient to define stairwells 84 at either side thereof. A plurality of planks P are laid edge to edge spanning the continuous parallel edges defined by flanges 12 and beams 40 of consecutive H building sections thereby to form a continuous P building section therebetween. For example, referring to the typical story of the building shown in FIG. 2, it will be seen that a P building section 53 comprises four planks P forming a continuous horizontal support spanning H section 52 (comprising sections 52x and 52y and B element 80 therebetween) and H section 54 (comprising sections 541: and 54y and B element 82 therebetween). Similarly, the terminal H sections of the building are operatively connected to the end elements H1 by four P planks across the entire width of the building thereby to form a terminal P section of the building. Thus P section 51 is formed on each story by four P planks extending between H section 52 (i.e., H sections 52): and

52y and B element 80) and the end H, elements vertically aligned above H, elements 62 and 66.

P section 55 in the specific embodiment of FIG. 2 is constructed in a somewhat different manner and comprises two slightly offset sections 55x and 552 on oppo site sides of vertical access means 70. Thus two planks P and P and a slightly modified plank P are disposed contiguously to bridge the end wall of series X formed by H, sections vertically stacked albove H, element 64 and H section 54x, the modified plank P extending over the top edge of vertical flanges l2 and 32 defining wall 71 of the story below. The projection 16' at one corner 7 of that modified plank P is extended toward the opposite corner sufficiently so as to operatively engage the flange 32 of the H, element on which it rests. A P, element is adapted to bridge the space between H sec tion 56y and elevator shaft 74, that element having its opposing projections 36 and 38 supported on the flanges 12 of the H elements of H section 56y and the cross member 30 defining the elevator shaft in the story' below.

Similarly at the other side of vertical access means section 55z is defined by two P elements and a modified plank P (identical to the modified plank P on the other side of vertical access means 70) bridging H section 55z and the H, element (not shown) stacked vertically above H1 element 68.

It will be apparent from the foregoing that the planks P and P and horizontal connecting support elements B on a single level together define a continuous horizontal supporting surface as illustrated in FIG. 2 constituting a main level of the building. One such main level is provided for each story of the building, each main level being brokenup by H sections at either side of connecting element B vertically disposed above and below the main floor by one half of one story.

It will be appreciated that the connecting elements B are aligned and together with the coterminous planks P afford a continuous horizontal support through the center of the structure on which a public corridor may be provided. However, by providing for stairwells 84 flanking elements B at either side, the need for public corridors on every main floor of the building may be eliminated.

Thus in the specific embodiment Ihere illustrated, within the stairwells 84 defined at either sideof ele-, ments B in each P section of the building a plurality of stairway elements S are mounted. As noted hereinbefore, those elements are each one full story in height and are provided with a bottom landing L and notches N, and N, at the top and bottom respectively adapted to fit on beam 40s of elements B. Accordingly, those elements are supported between the beam 40 at one end of one element B and the beam 40 at the other end of the next consecutive vertically aligned element B in the next higher story. The bottom landing L, of the element S is thus joined in coplanar relationship with one main level of the building while the top step provides access to the next higher main floor of the building. Moreover, the intermediate landing L, is exactly one half of one story above the lower landing L, and thus is coplanar with the cross members of the intermediate H elements and provides access to that H unit.

The stairway elements S at either side of elements B are preferably disposed in reverse direction so as to provide reverse structural trussing. Thus as illustrated in FIG. 2, the stairway elements adjacent H section 52.1:

extends upwardly to the right and bridge a floor of P section 51 with the next higher floor in P section 53, while the elements S adjacent H section 52y extend upwardly to the left, bridging a floor of P section 53 with the next higher floor of P section 51.

The construction of the lower right hand extension of the building (as viewed in FIG. 2) comprising parallel series Y and Z is identical to that already described and shown for the parallel X and Y series and it will be appreciated that this pattern may be continued for as long as desired, with or without additional vertical public access means 70.

It will be appreciated that the structure may be constructed quite efficiently at an extremely rapid pace heretofore unattainable. This is because less structural elements per/unit are required than heretofore and only a single continuous joint connecting each consecutive building section is required for the completion of each story. Thus, for example, a moderate size building of the type illustrated in FIG. 2 could be constructed at a pace of one story a day, weather permitting (a typical crane can handle approximately 30 structural elements per day).

The pleasing and aesthetic appearance andincreased versatility of interior design of the present structural system is illustrated in FIG. 4 which is a partially cut away view of a completed building formed on the structural framework of FIG. 2 showing only those interior walls defining separate occupancy units. The building has been divided into seven differently designed occupancy units generally designated 1-7 which are repeated throughout the structure with varying frequencies. Units not in the same vertical line which are repeated bear an additional letter designation. For example, units a and 5b represent two vertical lines of identical occupancy units. Since the repetition frequency of units is every other story as will hereinafter appear, only two consecutive stories 400 and 500 of the structure are here illustrated in full.

Referring specifically now to story 400 it will be seen that continuous P section 51 is divided by means of an interior wall 410 into a substantially rectangular occupancy unit 1 and the substantially square upper level of a split-level occupancy unit 2a. A corridor C is defined by internal walls 411 along the entire length of the XY parallel series of building sections and extends a few feet into P section 51 to the internal wall 412 thereby to define entrances Eland E2a to occupancy units 1 and 2a respectively. Unit 2a includes a lower level defined by H section 52y and connected to the upper level thereof by stairway SW26. The corresponding section 52x at the other side of corridor C defines the upper level of a second duplex apartment 4. Access to occupancy unit 4 is had through entrance E4 in the corridor wall which connects the upper landing of a stairway SW with the corridor C. The intermediate landing of stairway S is coplanar with the upper level of occupancy unit 4 and the lower landing thereof provides access to the lower level of split-level occupancy unit 4.

A generally square occupancy unit 3 is provided adjacent the entrance to unit 4 in P section 53 of the building, access to that unit from corridor C being pro vided by entrance E Opposite unit 3 in building section 53 at the other side of corridor C is the upper level of occupancy unit 2b which is level with corridor C and connected thereto through entrance E b. The lower level of unit 2b is defined by building section 54y and is connected to the upper level thereof by stairway Sw b. Across the corridor from the lower level of unit 2b in section 54x is the lower level of another duplex occupancy unit 20. The upper level of that unit is defined in building section 550 connected to the lower level by stairway SW 0, the entrance to that unit being provided at the upper level by entrance E 0. (It will be apparent that the lower half of the stairways providing access to occupancy units 2 are merely blocked off only the upper half connecting the upper and lower levels of these units is utilized).

Directly aligned with entrance E c across the corridor C is an entrance E8 to the public stairway defined by 5, elements in the manner illustrated in FIG. 2. The elevator shaft 72 is divided by internal wall 414 into two elevator cabins 72a and 72b, entrances E9 and E10 being provided on corridor floors to the elevators. A widened corridor area CA is provided in front of elevator shaft 72, that corridor area being defined by plank P, as shown in FIG. 2 and being effective to connect the corridor C with a corridor C defined between parallel extending series of building sections Y and Z forming the next extension of the building. The pattern of occupancy units starting with building sections 56 may follow that established along corridor C or may vary in any desired way.

Referring now to the nexthigherstory of the building 500, it will be seen that continuous P section 51 is divided by internal wall 510 into the lower level of an occupancy unit 4', access to which is provided by an entrance on the next higher corridor leading to stairway SW and the upper level of an occupancy unit 5a access to which is provided through stairway SW a, the lower landing of which is level with corridor C at entrance E a. Internal walls 512 and 514 separate unit 5a from the upper level of an enlarged occupancy unit 6a, that upper level extending completely across the continuous P section 53 and being separated from an identical occupancy unit 6b disposed in reverse orientation by internal'wall 516. Access is provided to the lower and upper levels of occupancy unit 60 via stairway SW a leading to the depressed entrance E a at corridor C. Accordingly, it will be seen that occupancy units 6a and 6b are relatively large luxury split-level apartments, the upper level of which is provided with exposure at either side of the building. Occupancy unit 6b in building sections 53 and 54y and occupancy unit 5b in building sections 541: and 55 are identical to units 6a and 5a, respectively, and are disposed as mirror images thereof on either side of wall 516.

Since level 500 does-not include a public corridor, no elevator doors or stairway entrances to vertical public access means are provided on this floor. Adjacent elevator shafts 72, directly above widened corridor area CA and duplex occupancy unit 2d in level 400, is a luxury split-level occupancy unit 7, the upper level of which is formed on P section 55 and the lower level of which is defined by H section 56z. A stairway SW extends from the upper level of unit 7 to the corridor C on level 400, .the lower landing thereof being flush with the corridor C at entrance E7 and the intermediate landing thereof being flush with the lower level of unit 7. It will be apparent that the pattern of occupancy units on level 500 just described may be repeated in the Y-Z series of building sections beginning with unit 6c.

It will be appreciated from the foregoing that by appropriate positioning of entrances and internal walls, a virtually limitless variety of occupancy units may be designed having a variety of shapes and sizes. The preferred embodiment here shown is only illustrative of the versatility of my structural system and should not be construed to limit the possible internal design of the structure. For example, while the embodiment of FIG. 4 includes public corridors on alternate levels of the building, it will be apparent that with appropriate design changes corridors may be provided only on every third level or may be vertically spaced at even greater intervals. Moreover, while only single level and two level units are shown, the system is equally conducive to occupancy units having three or more levels. In addition, it will be appreciated that by providing H sections having cross members which are offset vertically from the center line of their flanges 12, the levels of adjacent building sections may be offset by more or less than one half story. (For example, if H elements having cross members disposed one-third of one story from the top edge of their flanges are utilized, then the H sections of the building will be disposed one-third of one story below and two-thirds of one story above the adjacent P sections thereof.) Finally, the width of the P sections of the building may be varied simply by using planks P of different dimensions'without the need for any other structural changes. 7

Various roof designs are possible for structures of the type here described,three such roof designs being illustrated in FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C. FIG. 5A shows a stepped roof, each building section comprising one step vertically spaced from the preceding step by one-half of one story. This stepped configuration is achieved by the use of a modified H element here designated H having the'upper half of one flange 12 removed, the lower half of that flange forming the vertical step 90 in alternate building sections. The remaining vertical steps 92 are defined by the top half of the other flange 12 of elements H Element H may be formed merely by blocking off. the appropriate section of the H mold during casting. The roof may be stepped down at either side, may be continuously stepped in one direction or in the case of buildings having substantial length may he stepped up and down several times to provide an undulating appearance. In any case, the stepped roof configuration provides the possibility of double and in some cases triple exposure for all occupancy units at the top level of their respective building sections (vertical steps 90 and 92 may have appropriate window openings therein). Indeed, if desired, appropriate door openings may be formed in steps 90 and 92 whereby the stepped roof sections may define terraces with ap propriate railings. If this is done, the basic unmodified H section may be used, the upper half of one flange l2 defining a terrace railing.

FIG. 58 illustrates the natural roof structure which results from the structural pattern of FIG. 2, the connecting element B merely being replaced by a plank P. If desired, the H roof sections may be used as enclosed terraces, a natural stairway access being provided from the uppermost adjacent P unit (see FIG. 2). j

The conventional flat roof illustrated in FIG. 5C is achieved by utilizing a pair of oppositely facing H elements to span consecutive H elements. Thus as shown in FIG. 5C, afirst H element is disposed with its flanges 32 extending upwardly, its cross member spanning two consecutive H elements (in place of 'a plank P). A second H element is disposed atop the first H element with its flanges extending downwardly, a building unit of substantially one full story being defined between the cross members 30 of the opposing H elements. Planks P are used to span the flanges 32 of consecutive H elements thereby to complete thesubstantially flat roof. A particular advantage of this roof structure resides in the provision of alternate units at the top of each H section of one and one half stories in height, thereby to provide an occupancy unit or portion thereof with a high ceiling, something which is virtually unattainable with conventional building systems. It will be appreciated that various other roof designs, including combinations of those here illustrated are possible.

Similarly, the structural system. here described provides great flexibility of facade design. One such design is partially illustrated in FIG. 6 and comprises a series of facade panels 86 of up to four stories in height disposed centrally at the end of each building section, appropriate horizontal panels 88 defining window openings provided at each side thereof and at the corner 94.

Mynew structural system has thus far been described in connection with the construction of high rise structures, typically used for luxury apartments or offices. The same basic structural framework however may be conveniently adapted for the construction of low cost low rise structures of the townhouse or garden apartment variety; One such structural framework is' illustrated in exploded perspective in FIG. 7. The structure there specifically illustrated comprises three parallel series of alternate H and P sections here designated 100, 102 and 104 constructed in accordance with the basic system shown in FIG. 1. Series utilizes the basic H elements and planks P previously described and illustrated in FIG. 3. The remaining series 102 and 104, however, utilize modified H elements here designated H and modified planks here designated P As best illustrated in'FIG. 8, elements H comprise the basic element H having one flange 12 and the cross member 10 relieved at one comer to provide a large notch N Similarly, the modified'plan-k P is provided with a large notch N, at one corner, the projection 16" at that corner being moved to one side of the notch N Referring again to FIG. 7 it will be seen that the notches N on a pair of contiguous H elements are paired in opposing relationship and are in opposing relationship to the notches N on the modified planks P in the next adjacent P section of the building. As a result, those four opposed notches define a vertical opening in the structure thereby to provide stairwells at alternate joints between H and P sections of the building. For example, in FIG. 7 four building sectionsl05, 106, 107 and 108 are illustrated. A'first stairwell 110 is de' fined by the notches N and N in the elements P and H5 of P section 105 and H section 106, respectively. Likewise a second stairwell 112 is defined by I the notches N and-N in the elements P, andH, of P section 107 and H section 108 respectively. Precast stairway elements S (such as the one shown in broken lines in FIG. 7) may be mounted within stairwells' 110 connecting the cross members 10 of the H elements with the next higher and lower levels formed by planks Pi. The stairway elements are preferably of a width equal to the width of notches N and N whereby two vertical lines of stairway elements S are provided in series 102 and 104 respectively. These lines of stairway elements are preferably disposed in opposing orientation as best illustrated in FIG. 7.

It will be apparent that the structural framework of FIG. 7 lends itself well to a variety of convenient internal apartment configurations. For example, one or more of the stairwells may be utilized to provide for duplex or even triplex apartments, the remaining stairwells providing public access. Indeed, a stairwell may be used to provide public access to the bottom levels, the top two or more levels being utilized for a single apartment. Moreover, various roof designs such as those already described are feasible.

Similarly the facade may be designed in a variety of ways to provide a unique and pleasing appearance. Two of the many possibilities are illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 for three and four story structures, respectively of the town house type. The appearance of buildings utilizing the present system is enhanced not only by the split level design including the undulating or stepped roof which tends to radically break up the monotony of box-like structures but also by the possibility of a split level stilted type foundation such as that embodied in the building of FIG. 9. Not only does this design add to the uniqueness of appearance but also the spaces underlying the alternate P sections may be utilized for example as a car port. Various other design possibilities will .be apparent.

A significant advantage of the structural system here disclosed both with respect to high rise and low rise structures is its unique adaptability to variations in terrain which in many cases obviates the expensive process of altering a hilly'site prior to building. This is exemplified by the low rise building illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11. As there shown the structure may be stepped up or down byone full story (i.e., 9 feet) for every two building sections (i.e., 40 feet) thereby to closely approximate uneven terrain such as the terraced terrain 120 of FIG. 10 or the straight inclined terrain 122 of FIG. 11. In any case, the flanges 12 of the lower H elements serve as natural stilts one-half story The use of the precast reinforced structural elements disclosed herein is adapted to provide a substantially monolithic network of horizontal and vertical supports arranged to provide offset levels in adjacent building sections. As a result of the fewer number of structural elements required and the provision for only one series of poured joints per building story, the possible speed of erection of a building in accordance with the present system is considerably enhanced. Moreover, the provision for internal stairway elements connecting at least three levels of three consecutive building sections together with the elimination of the need for corridors on every main level of the building provides for maximum utilization of floor space and for an internal design flex-' ibility of almost limitless scope.

Finally, the use of an building element as the primary structural element substantially increases the versatility of external design of the building including the possibility of stepped or undulating roofs or foundations which provide not only a unique appearance and a variety of penthouse design possibilities, but also may be used to conform the building to an even terrain.

While only a limited number of embodiments of the present invention have been herein specifically described, it will be apparent that many variations maybe made therein, all within the scope of the invention, as defined in the following claims.

I claim:

1. A multi-story building structure comprising at least first and second series of contiguous building sections, said building sections separated by vertical support walls extending in a first direction, each building section comprising a plurality of vertically aligned building units separated by spaced horizontal support members defining the floors and ceilings of said units, the horizontal support members in adjacent units being vertically staggered, said first and second series of building sections being spaced from one another in said first direction and having their building sections in alignment, means connecting the horizontal support members on the same level in selected building sections of said first and second series, respectively, to define continuous floors and ceilings in said selected building sections of said first and second series, respectively, spanning means within said space defined between said first and second series of building sections extending in a second direction substantially transverse to said first direction and operatively connecting the continuous floors and ceilings of said selected building sections on the same level thereby to define the main levels of said building, and vertical access means at each side of said last mentioned connecting means within said space operatively connecting the continuous floors and ceilings of said selected building sections on consecutive main levels of said building with the horizontal support members of the nonselected building sections therebetween at levels intermediate said main levels, whereby public corridors extending in said second direction may be formed on selected main levels ofsaid building, said corridors extending between said vertical access means, said vertical access means being adapted to provide access from said corridors to all remaining levels of the building, the floor space of the remaining levels of said building being substantially fully utilized as occupancy space.

2. The structure of claim 1, wherein said vertical support walls separating consecutive building sections each comprise a plurality of vertical support members each one building story in height vertically stacked in end to end relationship, the horizontal planar support members in the non-selected building sections comprising cross members prefabricated integrally with the vertical support members between which they extend, and said vertical access means extending parallel to said horizontal support means.

3. The structure of claim 2, wherein said spanning means comprises a pair of spaced parallel beams operatively connected at either end to said vertical support members defining aligned non-selected building sections in said first and second series respectively, and a planar connecting member operatively connected at either end to said beams and spanning same, said connecting member being substantially smaller in width than the distance between said first and second series of building sections, said continuous floors in said selected building sections being defined by one or more planks operatively connected to and extending between the spaced vertical support members and beams of consecutive non-selected building sections.

4. The structure of claim 3, wherein said spanning means is prefabricated with said connecting member formed integral with said beams. V

5. The structure of claim 3, wherein said vertical access means comprises stairway elements operatively disposed within said non-selected building sections in the space between said two series at opposite sidesof said connecting member, said stairway elements operatively connecting the continuous floors of consecutive selected building sections on consecutive main levels with the cross members defining intermediate levels in the non-selected building sections therebetween.

6. In combination, a structural framework for a multi-story building using precast structural H elements, each of said H elements comprising a planar cross member adapted to form the horizontal supports of a building section and having two parallel flanges at either end thereof extending substantially perpendicular to said cross member by a distance of substantially one building story and adapted to form the vertical structural supports of said building, said H element being integrally cast, and means extending throughout said cross member and said flanges providing continuous reinforcement of said H element, said framework comprising a series of spaced H building sections each comprising a plurality of said H elements disposed in vertically stacked relationship with their flanges in vertical alignment, consecutive H building sections being spaced from one anothenin a direction perpendicular to said vertical flanges, and horizontal support means extending across the space between consecutive H building sections and operatively connecting said spaced H building sections at the joints between the flanges of consecutive vertically stacked H elements thereof.

7. The structural framework of claim 6, wherein said horizontal support means comprises planks and wherein opposite ends of said planks are vertically sup ported atop the flanges of horizontally aligned H elements in consecutive H building sections, the next higher H elements of said building sections having their flanges vertically supported on the ends of said planks, whereby opposite ends of said planks are sandwiched between the flanges of consecutive vertically stacked H elements in consecutive horizontally spaced H building sections.

8. The structural framework of claim 7, wherein said planks are formed of precast reinforced concrete.

9 The structural framework of claim 8, wherein the reinforcing means within said planks extend outwardly thereof at opposite ends thereof.

10. The structural framework of claim 9, wherein each opposite end of said plank deflnes'a recess inter mediate the sides thereof, and further comprising means defining a monolithic joint between the flanges of consecutive vertically stacked H elements and the recessed end of one of said planks sandwiched therebesaid reinforcing means of said plank and said flanges.

I UMTED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION patent No. 5.302461 Date; April 25, 197

Inve j or(s) Ajay]: T880618.

It is certified thaterror appears in the above-identified patent vand thatsaid Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Inventor! I Ajay]: Jageda, 285 Aycrigg Ave.,

Passaic ,N. J. 07055 Signed and sealed this 12th day of November 1974.

Attest:

McCOY M. GIBSON JR. C. MARSHALL DANN Attesting Officer Commissioner of Patents FORM PO-IOSO (10-69) U5COMM-DC 60376-7 69 u.s sovsmmzm rnmrme OFFICE I." o-Ju-au, 

1. A multi-story building structure comprising at least first and second series of contiguous building sections, said building sections separated by vertical support walls extending in a first direction, each building section comprising a plurality of vertically aligned building units separated by spaced horizontal support members defining the floors and ceilings of said units, the horizontal support members in adjacent units being vertically staggered, said first and second series of building sections being spaced from one another in said first direction and having their building sections in alignment, means connecting the horizontal support members on the same level in selected building sections of said first and second series, respectively, to define continuous floors and ceilings in said selected building sections of said first and second series, respectively, spanning means within said space defined between said first and second series of building sections extending in a second direction substantially transverse to said first direction and operatively connecting the continuous floors and ceilings of said selected building sections on the same level thereby to define the main levels of said building, and vertical access means at each side of said last mentioned connecting means within said space operatively connecting the continuous floors and ceilings of said selected building sections on consecutive main levels of said building with the horizontal support members of the nonselected building sections therebetween at levels intermediate said main levels, whereby public corridors extending in said second direction may be formed on selected main levels of said building, said corridors extending between said vertical access means, said vertical access means being adapted to provide access from said corridors to all remaining levels of the building, the floor space of the remaining levels of said building being substantially fully utilized as occupancy space.
 2. The structure of claim 1, wherein said vertical support walls separating consecutive building sections each comprise a plurality of vertical support members each one building story in height vertically stacked in end to end relationship, the horizontal planar support members in the non-selected building sections comprising cross members prefabricated integrally with the vertical support members between which they extend, and said vertical access means extending parallel to said horizontal support means.
 3. The structure of claim 2, wherein said spanning means comprises a pair of spaced parallel beams operatively connected at either end to said vertical support members defining aligned non-selected building sections in said first and second series respectively, and a planar connecting member operatively connected at either end to said beams and spanning same, said connecting member being substantially smaller in width than the distance between said first and second series of building sections, said continuous floOrs in said selected building sections being defined by one or more planks operatively connected to and extending between the spaced vertical support members and beams of consecutive non-selected building sections.
 4. The structure of claim 3, wherein said spanning means is prefabricated with said connecting member formed integral with said beams.
 5. The structure of claim 3, wherein said vertical access means comprises stairway elements operatively disposed within said non-selected building sections in the space between said two series at opposite sides of said connecting member, said stairway elements operatively connecting the continuous floors of consecutive selected building sections on consecutive main levels with the cross members defining intermediate levels in the non-selected building sections therebetween.
 6. In combination, a structural framework for a multi-story building using precast structural H elements, each of said H elements comprising a planar cross member adapted to form the horizontal supports of a building section and having two parallel flanges at either end thereof extending substantially perpendicular to said cross member by a distance of substantially one building story and adapted to form the vertical structural supports of said building, said H element being integrally cast, and means extending throughout said cross member and said flanges providing continuous reinforcement of said H element, said framework comprising a series of spaced H building sections each comprising a plurality of said H elements disposed in vertically stacked relationship with their flanges in vertical alignment, consecutive H building sections being spaced from one another in a direction perpendicular to said vertical flanges, and horizontal support means extending across the space between consecutive H building sections and operatively connecting said spaced H building sections at the joints between the flanges of consecutive vertically stacked H elements thereof.
 7. The structural framework of claim 6, wherein said horizontal support means comprises planks and wherein opposite ends of said planks are vertically supported atop the flanges of horizontally aligned H elements in consecutive H building sections, the next higher H elements of said building sections having their flanges vertically supported on the ends of said planks, whereby opposite ends of said planks are sandwiched between the flanges of consecutive vertically stacked H elements in consecutive horizontally spaced H building sections.
 8. The structural framework of claim 7, wherein said planks are formed of precast reinforced concrete.
 9. The structural framework of claim 8, wherein the reinforcing means within said planks extend outwardly thereof at opposite ends thereof.
 10. The structural framework of claim 9, wherein each opposite end of said plank defines a recess intermediate the sides thereof, and further comprising means defining a monolithic joint between the flanges of consecutive vertically stacked H elements and the recessed end of one of said planks sandwiched therebetween.
 11. The structural framework of claim 10, wherein said recess of said plank end in said monolithic joint contains concrete and operably connected portions of said reinforcing means of said plank and said flanges. 